Real Salt Lake Suffers First Preseason Defeat In Final Game, Takes Home Silverware

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Real Salt Lake will return to Utah after suffering a final preseason loss to the LA Galaxy. It was a Víctor Vázquez who scored the game’s only goal in the 42nd minute.

RSL found themselves on the back foot, with the Galaxy dominating the opening 15 minutes of possession and attacking chances. However, as the game continued the RSL players started to find their game.

RSL’s XI – Brody, Holt, Julio, Kreilach, Luiz, Meram, Ochoa, Rubin, Ruiz, Silva, Toia

— Real Salt Lake (@realsaltlake) April 10, 2021

Should Have Equalized

In the first half, despite conceding the only goal of the game on the brink of halftime, RSL had more of the attacking opportunities but was unable to capitalize.

The best opportunity of the game came when Justin Meram failed to score despite being in a one-on-one position with only the Galaxy keeper to beat. His left-footed strike was not hit well and was easily saved. A disappointing finish, to say the least.

Other RSL opportunities came from Rubio Rubin who was active all evening in front of goal. Pablo Ruiz also had a slight chance to find the back of the net with a right-footed attempt from the 18-yard line.

Damir Kreilach also had a shot saved from the 6-yard line. RSL was incredibly unfortunate not to score an equalizer as they dominated the Galaxy when it came to chances created.

Manager Freddy Juarez opted for a strong line-up as David Ochoa saw his first preseason action in between the sticks. Everton Luiz and Pablo Ruiz played alongside one and other in the heart of the midfield and looked strong. Albert Rusnak started on the bench, which gave Damir Kreilach the opportunity to play at his preferred position.

Rubio Rubin played up top with Anderson Julio and Justin Meram on either flank.

Worthwhile Stay In Tucson

Despite the loss, it was an impressive outing from RSL who will return to Utah and spend the following two weeks putting final preparations on their preseason campaign.

Their first MLS regular-season game is set for April 24th on the road against Minnesota United. Then, they will return home for their home opener against Sporting Kansas City on May 1st. 10,000 fans will be allowed into the stadium for the home opener, interim President John Kimball announced last week.

All regular-season games will be available to stream via the KSL 5 TV app and KSLSports.com.

The loss to the galaxy marks the only loss for RSL during the preseason. They beat the Sacramento Republic in Utah before coming to Tucson, then, they beat Colorado Rapids, and Phoenix Rising within the previous 10 days. They still managed to secure the 2021 Visit Tucson Sun Cup. Damir Kreilach was named tournament MVP.

Damir Kreilach is named Tournament MVP and Real Salt Lake takes home the 2021 Visit Tucson Sun Cup.

— Real Salt Lake (@realsaltlake) April 11, 2021

The LA Galaxy, however, had only won on one occasion entering the evening after beating New England Revolution 1-0 on March 27th.